Northwest Iowa — Farmers in Northwest Iowa continue to make strong strides in crop emergence, with both corn and soybeans surpassing statewide averages. However, lingering concerns over subsoil moisture and fewer suitable fieldwork days pose challenges as the growing season advances.
According to the latest report from the USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service, 97% of corn has emerged in Northwest Iowa, ahead of the statewide rate of 92%. Soybeans are also progressing well, with 89% emerged, slightly above the statewide average of 88%. Corn condition remains strong, rated 85% good to excellent, while soybean condition is slightly lower at 80% good to excellent, reflecting a 1 percentage point decline from the previous week.
Topsoil moisture in Northwest Iowa stands at 2% very short, 14% short, 81% adequate, and 3% surplus. Similarly, subsoil moisture in Northwest Iowa is 4% very short and 30% short and 65% adequate.
Weather conditions played a key role in shaping field activity. Northwest Iowa recorded weekly rainfall totals reaching up to 4.7 inches in Sioux County, contributing to improved moisture levels in some areas. The statewide average precipitation was 1.26 inches, slightly above the normal 1.17 inches. Temperatures remained near normal, averaging 66.3°F, which is 0.9°F below normal. Sioux City Airport reported the week’s high temperature of 94 degrees on the 2nd, 15 degrees above normal. Several stations reported the week’s low temperature of 44 degrees on the 4th, on average 12 degrees below normal.
Farmers in Northwest Iowa had only 4.0 days suitable for fieldwork, below the statewide average of 4.7 days. While limited working days have slowed some activities, many farmers are waiting for warmer and drier conditions before proceeding with spraying and additional field operations.
The full report is available at the USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service website.
(Courtesy fellow Community First Broadcasting station KSOU in Sioux Center)
